§ 190 § As part of the self-study, the parish will want to develop a process for liturgical education. While the actual content will vary from one parish to another, parishioners need to learn more about the liturgy, which is the heart of the Church’s life, and about their participation in the liturgy, which is the “primary and indispensable source” of the “true Christian spirit.”(SC 14) In addition, they need to understand the intrinsic relationships between the Eucharist and the other sacraments, the Liturgy of the Hours, the liturgical year, and the building that houses these celebrations. After reflecting on the basics of liturgy, the assembly can learn about the ways in which architectural elements, the placement and design of liturgical objects, and the choice of floor plans can encourage, control, or hinder liturgical actions. Full and active participation will be greatly affected by the appropriate architectural expression of faith for a particular community. The liturgical consultant chosen by the parish often develops and directs this education process. In other instances diocesan offices can provide assistance and resources in this area.

Note that optimal catechesis will result in a community more aware of the sacramental life of the Church, plus the connection with liturgical time, daily and through the year. Please also note that participation rises up to the top of these considerations. It’s always at the top of the post-conciliar liturgical renewal. That’s reform, sans 2.

about Todd Flowerday

A Roman Catholic lay person, married (since 1996), with one adopted child (since 2001). I serve in worship and spiritual life in a midwestern university parish.

about John Donaghy

John is a lay missionary since 2007 with a parish in western Honduras. Before that he served in campus ministry and social justice ministry in Iowa. His ministry blog is http://hermanojuancito.blogspot.com

He also blogs reflections on the lectionary and saints/heroes/events of the date at http://walktheway.wordpress.com

He'll be a long-term contributor here analyzing the Latin American bishops' document from their 2007 Aparecida Conference.